"Wagonloads of Blessings" at Family Camp!

Families gather for memorable week

“Wagonloads of Blessings” was the theme of this year’s ALERT Family Camp. More than two hundred families gathered in Big Sandy, Texas, from Mexico, Canada, and around the United States to join in the festivities.

At Family Camp, folks enjoy many activities which include horseback riding, rappelling, airplane rides, archery, and a low-ropes confidence course. The annual volleyball tournament was a hit, as was the new carpet ball tournament. Another activity introduced at this year’s camp was an escape room, challenging the teamwork, communication, and puzzle skills of the attendees. Many of the families commented that the escape room was one of their biggest highlights from the week.

Families also enjoyed hearing several speakers who were a vital part of the Family Camp schedule.Dr. Lew Sterrett, from Sermon on the Mount ministry, delighted attendees with his messages illustrated by horses that were part of his presentations. Congressman Louie Gohmert shared some of the good news from Washington, D.C., and encouraged families to pray for government officials. Steve and Megan Scheibner gave parents practical tips on child training and communication in marriage. Chaplain Tom Burch’s message on the blessing of God’s Word and trials was an encouragement to many, as was Keon Pendergast’s message.

This year’s Family Camp took place during a record-setting rainy spell in East Texas. Despite the cold, rainy days, the families enjoyed fellowship with each other. The Family Camp staff became very creative as they sought to move Family Camp indoors. A makeshift indoor corral was created so that Dr. Sterrett could continue his sessions in a dry location. Some of the special events were moved into the large Convention Center, where attendees participated in 9-square, carpet ball, corn hole, balance beams, jump rope, and other games. Even the canoe races were moved inside! The one dry day in the middle of the week was welcomed and enjoyed by all.